Which agency investigates aviation accidents in the United States?

• A. Federal Aviation Administration
• B. National Security Agency
• C. National Weather Service
• D. National Transportation Safety Board

Answer: (D)

When aviation accidents are investigated in the United States, an independent federal board conducts the formal process, determines probable causes, and issues safety recommendations to prevent recurrence. This agency specifically handles aviation accident investigations, looking at all factors from human performance to mechanical failure and environmental conditions. The FAA regulates aviation safety, certification, and oversight, but it does not lead the formal investigations. The NSA focuses on intelligence, not transportation accident investigations, and the National Weather Service provides weather data and forecasts rather than investigative work. So the agency responsible for aviation accident investigations is the National Transportation Safety Board.